Have you ever wanted to take a stroll through the streets of Spain but the only problem is you’re not in Europe but in the heart of South Beach? Well you are in luck! Espanola Way is a charming two-block passage way between Washington and Pennsylvania Avenue. It is full of life and Old-World allure. The gray cobble stone-like floors, the string lights dangling above like stars and the quaint sidewalk cafes are a perfect setting for a night to remember! Check out some of our favorite eateries below!

Sushi

First stop: Moshi Moshi

Moshi Moshi is a modern Japanese restaurant, well known for their innovative rolls.

Their house sake is the best tasting sake I’ve ever had. It is so refreshing and the lychee flavor added a burst of fruity essence.

This decorative sushi boat managed to taste even better than it looked! The sashimi was impeccably fresh. I guarantee there is a roll for even the pickiest of eaters.

Italian

Second stop: Mercato Della Pescheria

I rarely eat Italian because it’s difficult to find a “real” Italian place. Mercato Della Pescheria is truly an authentic Italian seafood restaurant serving market-style dishes. They make homemade pasta, wood oven pizza, fresh fish and creative cocktails.

The bruschetta includes prosciutto and pecorino, it is everything you want bruschetta to be – bright tomatoes, crispy bread and fresh herbs. It was quite a “welcome” into their dining room!

One of their signature drinks is the Sexy Mercato Cocktail, if you are a mango lover this is a must try! It consists of Absolut, Triple Sec, fresh lemon juice, mango puree and pomegranate liquor. It is an ingenious combination of ingredients designed to tantalize your taste buds.

Third stop: Hosteria Romana

Don’t miss Hosteria Romana, it should be at the top of your list. It was one of my favorites of the night, the ambiance was filled with traditional Italian music and enthusiastic waiters who cannot wait to fill up your wine glass. I mean how can you not fall in love with a restaurant that has “where Italians go for Italian” written on the glasses?

The main dish was called “Orecchiette co’ Gamberetto e Zucchini”. You know it’s going to be a good meal when you can’t pronounce the food your about to eat.

Orecchiette co’ Gamberetto e Zucchini is a type of pasta dish with shrimp and zucchini. The serving was so large, I could have easily shared it with my family of five. The pasta was perfectly al dente and the creamy sauce tasted like home. This dish paired with Vino Blanco were a flawless combination.

Spanish

Stop four: Tapas y Tintos

Tapas y Tintos is quite a sight to see nestled in Espanola Way. It is a Spanish tapas bar that is full of life. The vintage furniture, Spanish novelties and dim lighting are reminiscent of an old town in Spain. Images of matadors, soccer players and flamenco dancers entertained me as I enjoyed one of their notorious dishes – paella.

The paella tasted like the sea and the rice was not too soft or hard, it was just right. The lobster, shrimp and clams were generously burrowed in the rice, making them a nice surprise when it was my turn to dig in.

What would their paella be without their signature sangria? The Sangria has orange rum, peach liquor, brandy, red wine, apples and citrus. Definitely worth trying!

The next time you have a moment to stroll down Espanola Way, don’t waste it! Check out some of these lively spots and relish in a rustic vibe that you can’t find just anywhere. Enjoy a cocktail, glass of wine and travel to new lands with genuine cuisine from each country. Espanola Way is the only direction you need to go in the next time you are looking for a foodie adventure!

About Española Way

Española Way is a historic street between 14th and 15th street on Miami Beach, stretching from Washington Avenue to the western corners of Drexel Avenue. Owned by the City of Miami Beach, Scott Robins Companies, Inc and Infinity Real Estate, LLC, an INFINITY Group Company, Española Way is a quaint and picturesque Spanish-inspired village designed in Mediterranean Revival style. In May 2017, the City of Miami Beach invested and completed a $2.5 million revitalization project on the pedestrian-only street. Today, Española Way is experiencing a renaissance, living out the intentions of those who built it nearly a century ago. It is a festive street where locals and travelers congregate to commiserate, create and celebrate.  To stay up to date on the latest happenings, become a fan of Española Way on Facebook or follow Española Way on Instagram and Twitter.

Sheynelle Brown is a contributor for the South Florida Sage. She has a passion for pursuing and achieving her goals – including goals in the kitchen. There isn’t a recipe she won’t attempt at least once or a food she won’t try. She is always on the go, if she isn’t trying different foodie spot in South Florida, she delights in church activities and art museums. Her current project is working on her own lifestyle blog Sheynelle Number Five.

The South Florida Sage Follow on Instagram | Like on Facebook | Tweet on Twitter

Disclosure: I received a complimentary tasting on Espanola Way. All opinions are my own. All images appearing in this post photographed by Sheynelle Brown.